Intro to Thermal Energy

Front

What is thermal energy?

Back

Thermal energy is the total kinetic energy of the particles in a substance, which is related to its temperature.

Front

What happens to atoms when they are heated?

Back

When atoms are heated, they gain kinetic energy and vibrate faster.

Front

What is kinetic energy?

Back

Kinetic energy is the energy an object has due to its motion.

Front

How does temperature relate to kinetic energy?

Back

As the kinetic energy of the molecules in a substance increases, the temperature of that substance also increases.

Front

What occurs when thermal energy is added to a substance?

Back

When thermal energy is added to a substance, its temperature increases and its particles move faster.

Front

What happens to a substance when thermal energy is removed?

Back

When thermal energy is removed from a substance, its temperature decreases and its particles vibrate slower.

Front

What is the effect of thermal energy on the state of matter?

Back

Thermal energy can change the state of matter; for example, adding energy can cause melting, while removing energy can cause freezing.

Front

What is an example of a chemical reaction that releases energy?

Back

Combustion, such as burning wood or gasoline, is a chemical reaction that releases energy in the form of heat.

Front

What is the relationship between thermal energy and phase changes?

Back

Phase changes, like melting and freezing, involve the transfer of thermal energy.

Front

What is conduction?

Back

Conduction is the transfer of thermal energy through direct contact between materials.